Crisis Co-Responder Therapist (4795)

ncgCARE•Murphy, NC

About The Position

Appalachian Community Services provides mental health, behavioral health, substance use, and developmental disability services to individuals, families, and communities in seven western counties of North Carolina. The Crisis Co-Responder Therapist partners with law enforcement to respond to behavioral health crises in the community, de-escalate situations, conduct on-scene clinical assessments, and connect individuals with community-based services and supports. Depending on the situation, the therapist may respond alongside law enforcement in real time or arrive after the scene has been secured. This specialized team aims to reduce emergency department visits, arrests, and repeat law enforcement calls through immediate clinical intervention and short-term follow-up care. The role includes assessing suicide risk, substance use, psychosis, and social determinants of health, coordinating care and service connections, and documenting services. The organization describes its model as supporting clinicians with flexibility to shape their schedules and a steady caseload.

Requirements

Master's degree in a behavioral health field, such as Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or Marriage and Family Therapy.
At least an associate-level license in North Carolina, such as LCSW-A, LCMHC-A, LMFTA, or equivalent.
At least two years of experience in behavioral health.
Must be authorized to work in the United States.
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background checks and credential verification.

Nice To Haves

Experience in crisis response, community-based services, or law enforcement partnerships.

Responsibilities

Respond to behavioral health crisis calls in partnership with law enforcement and provide on-scene clinical support and de-escalation once the scene is safe.
Conduct comprehensive crisis assessments, including assessment of mental health concerns, suicide risk, substance use, safety risks, and immediate service needs.
Develop and coordinate care plans, connecting individuals to behavioral health treatment, housing, community resources, and follow-up support.
Provide short-term follow-up and care coordination to help reduce repeat crises, emergency department visits, and law enforcement involvement.
Document services provided and maintain accurate records.
Collaborate with community partners to support ongoing care.

Benefits

Medical plan coverage through Anthem, including access to the Sydney app and 24/7 access to licensed doctors, therapists, and psychiatrists.
Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
Two dental plan options through Delta Dental.
Vision plan through EyeMed.
Optional Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account for childcare expenses.
Generous paid time off.
401(k) or Roth IRA retirement programs administered by Empower.
Financial planning and education services at no cost.
Voluntary supplemental benefits, including Accident, Critical Illness, and Short-Term Disability coverage.
Educational assistance, subject to position, hire date, and years of service.
Licensure Residency Program for full-time clinical staff.
Advancement and career development opportunities.